FAQ on Criminal Defense in St. Louis

At The Hammer Law Firm, LLC, we know that clients and families come to
our firm amid deeply troubling times. While their situations and cases
may be unique, our clients commonly have the same types of questions and
concerns about the charges they face, their rights, and how an attorney
can help them defend against their allegations. As we are always intent
upon alleviating the worries you and your loved ones have, our Missouri
criminal defense lawyers make is a point to provide you with a sense of
reassurance that comes with the genuine communication, truth, and trust
we cultivate. This is why we have provided answers to some of the most
frequently asked questions we hear from people who are just beginning
their legal journey.

What should I do after an arrest? Although we are fully aware that chaos, fear, and uncertainty loom heavy
in the aftermath of an arrest, we encourage anyone who may be currently
facing criminal allegations, as well as their families, to remain calm.
While this is no easy feat, it can certainly be made easier by working
with experienced, compassionate, and highly attentive St. Louis criminal
defense attorneys who are prepared to immediately set you at ease by reviewing
your case and determining the ways in which your charges can be fought.

Aside from seeking proven legal representation, our firm recommends that
you exercise your rights, specifically your right to remain silent. You
do not have to speak with law enforcement officers and you are never required
to answer questions without a lawyer present. Remaining silent can ensure
that you do not say anything that can later be used to incriminate you.
Additionally, collecting all relevant legal documentation, taking notes
of important dates and deadlines, and securing information of any witnesses
who may be of benefit to your future defense are wise decisions that can
aid you, and your attorney, as your legal process progresses. This being
said, consulting a knowledgeable and qualified lawyers should still be
your first priority.

Is there any possibility that I won't have to go to jail? Yes, there is always the possibility that imprisonment can be avoided,
especially when you work with proven attorneys. Regardless of the charges
you face, and no matter how hopeless you may feel, there are numerous
avenues of opportunity that can be pursued to have your charges dismissed,
dropped, or reduced.

What are my options? Your available defense options will always depend on the unique circumstances
involved in your case, particularly the following:

The nature and type of charge

Your prior criminal history

The arresting protocol of law enforcement officers

By carefully listening to what you have to say and by meticulously reviewing
all elements involved in your case, our legal team can assist you in determining
all of your available options and defense strategies. While these options
may vary from case to case, our attorneys have secured numerous favorable
resolutions for our clients by way of dismissals, plea bargains that reduce
charges and sentences, and alternative sentencing or diversion options.
Again, we want to reiterate that these are simply general options and
that the specific facts inherent to your case will provide a more precise
set of options and plans.

What are alternative options? When it comes to the criminal justice system, our society has shown that
it focuses more on rehabilitation than unfair punishment alone. This trend
means that, for certain individuals - in particular first-time offenders
and those accused of certain types of crimes - alternative sentencing
or diversion options can be pursued. These options provide ways of avoiding
harsh penalties, including terms of imprisonment. In drug crime cases,
for example, some defendants may be eligible for drug court, which will
allow them to obtain substance abuse treatment in lieu of incarceration.
When applicable, our lawyers help you determine if these alternative options
apply to your case and whether they can be pursued.

Will my case go to trial? Whether or not your case will extend into the trial phase will concern
the particular circumstances involved, the reasons for pursuing a trial,
and the viability of your defense. The trajectory and resolution of a
case will always be unique. While some people's best options rest
on the fate of a trial, others may find plea bargains and compromises
that reduce charges or penalties to be more appealing. It is true, however,
that your right to a trial can be a powerful tool in the hands of a seasoned
criminal defense lawyer. Should you choose to work with our firm, you
can be sure that our attorneys will heavily weigh your options and guide
you toward the best choice.

As we have a solid reputation for our grit and integrity throughout the
local and state court systems, we find that we have ample leverage we
can exercise during negotiations. Additionally, our legal team has handled
hundreds of criminal trials and has no aversion to fighting aggressively
on your behalf, should that be your most favorable option.

Can a lawyer really make a difference? The simple answer? Most definitely. Having an experienced lawyer who focuses
on criminal defense by your side can ensure that you do not commit any
errors or mistakes that can compromise your case and that you are guided
safely through your legal process. Our attorneys focus intently on making
your legal experience one not marked by fear or uncertainty, but rather
by hope, confidence, and the reassurance that comes with knowing precisely
what is going on at every step.

Beyond helping you navigate your legal journey, a lawyer can fight for
the best resolution possible in your case. At The Hammer Law Firm, LLC,
we draw from
decades of criminal law experience and careers as former prosecutors to provide our clients with effective defense strategies. In every case,
our goals revolve around protecting your rights, your freedom, and your
future. As we have the skills to do so, and the record of success to prove
that we have done so in the past, you can be confident that our St. Louis
criminal defense lawyer can certainly make a difference in your case.

Contact Us for Answers to Your Specific Questions

These frequently asked questions and answers are intended to provide you
and your loved ones with a general starting point to begin your legal
process. If you have any additional questions, or if you wish to find
specific answers about your case, please to not hesitate to reach out
to our firm for a free case evaluation. Find the information and support
you need, absolutely free of charge.
Contact The Hammer Law Firm, LLC.

Recognized in the industry

National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers

American Bar Association

The Bar Association of Metropolitan St. Louis

Missouri Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers

Client Testimonials

"I could not have imagined getting through this difficult and uncertain time without the help of the Hammer Law Firm."
- E.M

"You don't know how much of a blessing you are to us"
- C.G

"Mark and Nicole are the best law firm partners ever."
- C.E

"Mark and Nicole are the best at getting to the truth of the matter and dedicated to your clients"
- Vicki H.

"Mark Hammer is a decisive, direct, and conscientious attorney. I would definitely recommend him to others."
- Anonymous

"Mark Hammer is a gentleman, exudes confidence and relieves stress with his truth"
- Anonymous

The information on this website is for general information purposes only.
Nothing on this site should be taken as legal advice for any individual
case or situation. This information is not intended to create, and receipt
or viewing does not constitute, an attorney-client relationship.

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